Today there are people riding their bicycles across Massachusetts as part of the Pan Mass Challenge, and they typically go to through my town, and right down our street on their way to Cape Cod. The Pan Mass Challenge supports the lifesaving cancer research at Dana Farber, so it has similar goals to the Race for the Cure that I'm involved with this summer. Thankfully, it is a beautiful day, and not so hot as it has been. Yesterday I almost ran a full 3.5 miles! I completed the distance, but walked for a few minutes. I'm up to the 3.5 miles in 39 minutes. The obstacle was mostly in my mind. I've been training to run 3 miles, and when I hit that 3 mile mark, I feel like it is time that I should stop, and I still need to go at the same level for about 5 more minutes. (I should be able to do that! Right? Remove that obstacle.... remove that obstacle...) And today I'm also inspired by these riders and all the people they are supporting with their efforts to keep going!

We have just a few short weeks remaining before the Race for the Cure. And my Aunt is going to come up to visit us and participate as a walker in the Race too! She'll stay for about a week. So, this is simply wonderful news that she is feeling well enough to travel, and to participate in the event! I am going to be extra busy to get everything spiffed up, ready and comfortable for our very honored guest. It will be a good time and an opportunity to get everyone together again. Definitely going to be rolling out the red carpet for her! In the meantime, I was wondering if you all might like to suggest some TUNES to add into my iPod for the training at the gym and maybe for the playlist on race day. Criterion: Must have inspiring uplifting lyrics. I like strong melodies. For running, it is helpful if it has a good beat to keep the pace. Suggestions? I'm also thinking that I may do a series of blog entries as we lead into the race day where I highlight the songs that I'm currently using and why I like to run with them. Would you all find that fun?

Last night, I wanted to do my training run outside, and I went for 3.2 miles in about 37 minutes. Twice around the loop to the local coffee house that I often do when I want a short walk with the dog. I had to stop briefly twice for traffic lights crossing the street, but other than that, I ran the whole way! Now I just have to figure out how to reach my financial goal. I'm almost there, but uncertain about what else to do to make it happen. I've never done any fundraising type stuff before. Suggestions?